10 Best Carpet Cleaner Machines 2026 in the United States

The BISSELL Little Green Mini is a lightweight and compact portable carpet and upholstery cleaner, weighing just 7 pounds, which makes it easy to carry and store in small spaces like closets or cabinets. It’s designed for spot cleaning and smaller jobs, such as removing pet stains, upholstery dirt, car interiors, and pet beds. The cleaning power is solid for its size, using a spray, scrub, and suction system paired with a specialized cleaning formula that targets stains and odors effectively.

The 16-ounce tank capacity is small, so it works best for quick cleanups rather than large areas, meaning you might need to refill it often during bigger tasks. It comes with useful attachments like a 4-inch tough stain tool and a HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool, which help reach tricky spots and keep the machine fresh after use. Since it’s a portable unit, drying time tends to be fairly quick compared to larger carpet cleaners. The product operates quietly enough for home use and is powered by a corded electric source, so you don’t have to worry about battery life during cleaning.

Its ease of use stands out, especially for people who want a simple, no-fuss cleaner that can tackle pet messes and small stains without heavy lifting. That said, if you need to clean large carpets or perform heavy-duty deep cleaning, this model may feel limited due to its small tank and compact design.

The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is an excellent choice for anyone needing a compact yet powerful solution for cleaning carpets and upholstery, especially if you have pets. One of its standout features is the impressive suction power that effectively tackles tough stains and odors, making it ideal for pet owners looking to maintain cleanliness in their homes or vehicles. The large 48 oz. tank capacity allows for extended cleaning sessions without frequent refills, which is a big plus.

Portability is another strong suit of this cleaner; its handheld design and light weight of just under 10 pounds mean you can easily carry it around your home or use it in your car. The included attachments, like the Tough Stain Tool, offer versatility to address various cleaning needs, and the HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Tool ensures the machine stays in good condition after use.

There are some downsides to consider. Being corded, it limits mobility to areas near power outlets, which might be inconvenient for larger spaces. Additionally, the drying time can vary depending on the carpet or fabric being cleaned, and while it performs well, it might not be as effective on very old or deeply embedded stains compared to larger, more powerful machines. Noise level is also a consideration; while not excessively loud, it's noticeable during operation, which might be a factor if you have sensitive pets or children. This cleaner is a reliable option for everyday cleaning tasks, especially for pet owners or those needing a handy cleaner for spot cleaning around the house or car.

The Shark EX201 CarpetXpert is a versatile carpet cleaner designed to tackle deep cleaning for carpets, area rugs, and upholstery. Boasting powerful suction and innovative deep-cleaning technology, it excels at removing tough stains and dirt. The built-in spot and stain eliminator with StainStriker Technology is particularly impressive, using a dual-activated formula for effective on-contact stain removal. This feature makes it ideal for homes with pets, as it effectively eliminates odors from pet urine and smoke.

The machine includes useful attachments such as a 3.5-inch stain tool, crevice tool, and pet tool, which enhance its cleaning capabilities for various surfaces and tight spaces. Additionally, its ultra-fast drying times prevent carpets from becoming oversoaked, which is a significant advantage for quick turnovers and minimizing disruption in busy households. However, weighing in at 18.05 pounds, the Shark EX201 may not be the most portable option, especially for users who might struggle with heavier appliances. Its large tank capacity of 30.4 gallons is great for extended cleaning sessions but could add to the overall heft.

The ease of use is enhanced by its plug-in power source and no requirement for battery changes, yet assembly might be required for first-time users. In summary, the Shark EX201 CarpetXpert offers robust cleaning performance and specialized pet stain removal, but its weight could be a concern for some users.